Exercise Library

Side Plank with Straight Leg

Target Body Part:Abs, Butt/Hips

Equipment Needed:No Equipment

Step 1

Starting Position: Lie on your right side on an exercise mat with your legs straight and the left leg stacked directly on top of the right. Bend the right elbow and place is directly under your shoulder. Align your head with your spine and keep your hips and right knee in contact with the exercise mat.

Step 2

Upward Phase: Exhale, keep the abdominals engaged to brace your spine. Lift your hips and knees off the mat. The side of your right foot stays in contact with the mat. Keep your head aligned with your spine and your right elbow positioned directly under your shoulder.

Step 3

Lowering Phase: Inhale and gently return to your starting position. After a prescribed number of repetitions, repeat on the other side.

Step 4

Exercise Variation: You can increase the intensity of this exercise by (1) increasing the length of time you are in the raised position, (2) raising the upper leg off the lower leg or (3) raising the lower leg off the floor and maintaining contact with your elbow and the foot of the upper leg only.When raising the upper leg off the lower leg, there is no need to raise it to a level beyond parallel with the floor.